Subaru Outback vs Ford Explorer

Safety

Subaru knows that what’s on the inside matters. No matter where the road takes you, you and your passengers can travel in confidence. Every Subaru Outback comes standard with an all-around advanced protection system consisting of eight airbags and a ring-shaped reinforcement frame. Plus, even when you’re looking at the destination that lies ahead, you’ll always know what’s behind you with the standard rear-vision camera.

Now with the available EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, you’ll always have an extra set of eyes on the road. From pre-collision breaking to adaptive cruise control, Subaru has taken safety to a whole new level. It’s so advanced that when the Outback was equipped with EyeSight, it received the highest possible score in front crash prevention from the IIHS.

With all of these features to keep you safe, it’s no wonder the Outback has been an IIHS Top Safety Pick for eight years running.

Unlike the Subaru Outback, the Ford Explorer’s safety features don’t wrap around the entire vehicle.

Performance

A vehicle’s performance speaks volumes about the brand’s overall philosophy. Subaru knows that it’s not only about the destination, but also every single mile of the journey. At 32 MPG, the Outback is the most fuel-efficient midsize crossover in America1. Now when you embark on your adventure, you can rest assured that your gas tank will take you the distance.

Every Outback also comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the Subaru Boxer® Engine, providing you with maximum control and power behind the wheel. Whether you’re driving in rain/shine or on pavement/gravel, the Outback will get you there. The Ford Explorer only offers an available four-wheel drive. As an adventurer that goes all out, don’t you want a vehicle that gives you its all?

1. Based on EPA estimated fuel economy for Outback 2.5i at 32 highway MPG, and Outback 3.6R at 27 highway MPG. Actual mileage may vary. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for more information.

Technology

After a refreshing day on the outside, get everything you need on the inside. The Outback comes equipped with StarlinkTM in-vehicle technology, bringing smartphone entertainment and communication straight to your dashboard. Staying connected while adventuring has never been easier.

The Explorer’s standard entertainment system is not as advanced and complete as the Outback’s.

Cargo Space

There’s no such thing as traveling lightly on an adventure. Fortunately, the spacious Outback has plenty of room for you, your travel buddies, and your luggage. When you fold the 60/40 rear seats in, an impressive 73.3 cubic feet of cargo room becomes available.

If you’re transporting bikes, skis, and the like – no worries. There’s plenty of room for them on the roof of the Outback, with its standard roof rails and crossbar system.

Traveling heavily in an Outback is a piece of cake. The same can’t be said in an Explorer.